Advocacy Letter: Adopting Innovative Technology Ensures Continuity for Radio Broadcasting
In the face of budget recessions and the need to expand programming opportunities, public radio broadcasters are turning to technology for solutions.
One such company that could provide valuable solutions for broadcasters looking to reduce costs is Orban Labs, based in Pennsauken, N.J. The integration of AI technology allows air talent to be located anywhere with internet access, opening up a vast pool of potential talent sources.
Smaller public radio stations can realize significant cost savings by leveraging AI-driven automation for content scheduling and management. This approach, combined with the deployment of cloud-based streaming and storage services, can reduce infrastructure costs. Moreover, exploring hybrid satellite and terrestrial alternatives for content delivery can be a more cost-effective solution than relying solely on expensive traditional satellite links.
Key technology-related cost-saving solutions include AI-powered scheduling and content curation, cloud-based streaming and storage, satellite alternatives for content delivery, and AI-driven network and operational management.
AI tools can automate playlist generation, content tagging, and optimize broadcast schedules based on listener preferences and engagement patterns, reducing the need for extensive manual programming and staffing costs. Utilizing OTT streaming platforms and cloud services eliminates the need for costly on-premises hardware, lowers maintenance expenses, and supports 24/7 live streaming with enhanced flexibility.
A hybrid approach combining satellite with terrestrial broadband or emerging low-cost satellite networks can reduce expenses and improve service reliability in remote or underserved areas. In radio network operations, AI automation can reduce operational costs by up to 20% through real-time network optimization, predictive maintenance, and energy efficiency improvements.
Given recent substantial federal funding cuts affecting smaller public stations, these technological adaptations are critical to maintain service and reduce dependence on dwindling subsidies. Local stations especially benefit from automating labor-intensive tasks, optimizing content delivery, and adopting scalable cloud platforms to stretch limited budgets while continuing to serve their communities effectively.
The author proposes investigating the use of cloud-based AI like Super Hi-Fi for programming. COVID-19 demonstrated that it's possible to produce quality radio from home, and embracing new technologies can help broadcasters keep on air. Commercial broadcasters are already using AI technology to downsize studios and office space at significant savings without affecting quality.
However, the public broadcasting budget recessions are expected to have a significant impact on radio stations, particularly those in smaller markets due to limited fundraising capabilities. Some AI automation vendors offer pre-made formats that can be quickly and cost-effectively implemented.
Mike Pappas, Senior Vice President of Global Sales at Orban Labs, suggests broadcasters embrace new technologies to stay competitive in today's rapidly changing media landscape. The author encourages thinking outside the box from a technical standpoint for the future of public radio.
- Orban Labs' AI technology allows air talent to work from anywhere with internet access, potentially opening up a large pool of diverse talent sources for public radio broadcasters.
- Storage and streaming services based in the cloud can significantly reduce infrastructure costs for smaller public radio stations, enabling them to allocate resources to other areas of their operations.
- Hybrid satellite and terrestrial content delivery can prove to be a more financially viable solution than relying on traditional satellite links, as it offers a balance between cost and service reliability, especially in remote areas.
- AI-driven automation and network management can help public radio stations reduce operational costs by up to 20%, allowing them to be more financially sustainable during budget recessions and the shift towards digital media.
